Design:
Perhaps one of Alchemist's most popular and enduring products, the
Kraken Integrated has had a loyal following since its initial release.
This Class A amplifier is presented in a mini-sized case which exudes
authority - but don't touch for too long as the metal knobs, on
metal rods which lead inside the case, get very hot along with the
rest of the amplifier. In fact, Alchemist stated that the amp would
reach an idling temperature of 55 degrees centigrade in a 24 degree
environment.
Independent input and record output switching are
provided for the six line inputs, one of which can be upgraded with a
plug-in MM phono stage (the process involves removing the top cover and
a few of the knobs and rods, but isn't too difficult). All connections
are via RCA connectors with an unusual inversion of the left and right
connections (right on top and left beneath). Finally,
power is delivered by an external power supply, fitted with an
encaptured 2 metre lead and locking connector for the power terminal at
the rear of the amplifier. Power can only be turned on and off from the
external PSU, but given the amplifier's design, for best performance it
should be left powered up between listens (excepting when being left
unattended for long periods). Later models included a
pre-amplified output, allowing upgrading with the addition of a matching
Alchemist Kraken
Power Amplifier. Variances
on the design of this model included a choice of gold or silver finished
knobs, although the unit was most commonly supplied with gold knobs, the
identically styled Kraken pre-amplifier was supplied with silver
fittings, enabling a choice to be specified at the factory, should the
owner wish. |